Will not hesitate to take big step if interests threatened: Rajnath Singh

Addressing Indian Army troops on Dasehra, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh made it clear that India will “not hesitate” to take decisive action if its interests are threatened.

The minister celebrated Dasehra with the troops at Sukhna Military Station, near Darjeeling, West Bengal, where he also performed the traditional ‘Shastra Pooja’— a ritual of offering prayers with weapons to mark the festival.

Rajnath Singh, in his address to the soldiers, emphasised that India has never attacked any country out of hatred or contempt. “We fight only when someone insults or tries to harm our integrity and sovereignty, or when war is waged against religion, truth and human values,” he said, adding that India continues to uphold these principles.

“However, if our interests are threatened, we will not hesitate to take a big step. ‘Shastra Pooja’ is a clear indication that, if necessary, weapons will be used with full force,” Singh affirmed.

The Ministry of Defence described the ‘Shastra Pooja’ as a significant tradition in the Indian Army, symbolising respect for weapons as protectors of the nation’s sovereignty.

During the ceremony, Rajnath Singh performed the rituals and offered prayers to a variety of modern military equipment, including advanced infantry, artillery, communication systems, mobility platforms and drone systems. Among the weapons blessed was the newly inducted AK 203 assault rifle, made in India with Russian collaboration. The Indian Army Chief, General Upendra Dwivedi, explained the rifle’s use to the minister.

The ministry said the ceremony reaffirms the cultural and spiritual significance of Dasehra, while highlighting the critical role of weapon systems in safeguarding the nation. It symbolises the preparedness, resolve and unwavering dedication of the Armed Forces to protect India.

The event also underscored the Indian Army’s blend of tradition and modernisation, focusing on preserving India’s sovereignty and promoting indigenous defence platforms.

The ceremony was attended by Defence Secretary-designate RK Singh, Eastern Army Commander Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari, DG Border Roads Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan and 33 Corps Commander Lt Gen Zubin A Minwalla.